by order of the commander air force...

BY ORDER OF THE COMMANDER

AIR FORCE SPACE COMMAND

AIR FORCE SPACE COMMAND

INSTRUCTION 36-221

7 NOVEMBER 2011

Personnel

ADVANCED SPACE TRAINING AND

EDUCATION

COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY

ACCESSIBILITY: Publications and forms are available on the e-Publishing website at

www.e-Publishing.af.mil for downloading or ordering.

RELEASABILITY: There are no releasability restrictions on this publication.

OPR: HQ AFSPC/A1MH

Supersedes: AFSPCI36-221, 3 March

2008

Certified by: HQ AFSPC/A1M (Col

Robert G. Steele)

Pages: 25

This instruction implements Air Force Instruction (AFI) 36-2201, Volume 1, Training

Development, Delivery, and Evaluation, AFI 36-3701, Space Professional Development

Program and AFI 36-2302, Professional Development (Academic Degrees and Professional

Continuing Education); it reflects guidance in Air Force Policy Directive (AFPD) 36-22,

Military Training, AFPD 36-23, Military Education, AFPD 36-37, Space Professional

Development; Air Force Space Command Instruction (AFSPCI) 36-2202, Mission Ready

Training, Evaluation and Standardization Programs, Air University Instruction (AUI) 36-2306,

Air University Educational Program Review and AUI 36-2315, Student Disenrollment

Procedures . This guidance prescribes the roles, responsibilities, and processes associated with

the management and development of Advanced Space Operations School (ASOpS) courses. It

also describes Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) coordination with Air Education and

Training Command (AETC) - Air University (AU) to conduct space Professional Continuing

Education (PCE) executed through the National Security Space Institute (NSSI). It applies to

military and civilian personnel assigned to AFSPC, subordinate units and external agencies. It

also applies to Air National Guard (ANG) and Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) units and

members. Ensure that all records created as a result of processes prescribed in this

publication are maintained in accordance with Air Force Manual (AFMAN) 33-363,

Management of Records, and disposed of in accordance with Air Force Records Information

Management System (AFRIMS) Records Disposition Schedule (RDS) located at

https://www.my.af.mil/afrims/afrims/afrims/rims.cfm. Refer recommended changes and

questions about this publication to the Office of Primary Responsibility (OPR) (HQ

http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/

https://www.my.af.mil/afrims/afrims/afrims/rims.cfm

2 AFSPCI36-221 7 NOVEMBER 2011

AMC/A4TR, DSN 779-4592 /Commercial 618-229-4592) using the AF Form 847,

Recommendation for Change of Publication.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

This document has been substantially revised and must be completely reviewed. Major changes

include: title change from “NSSI Course Management and Development” to “Advanced Space

Training and Education”; organizational realignment of NSSI under AU and ASOpS under the

Space Innovation & Development Center (SIDC); modification to ASOpS course change

process; addition of AFSPC process to develop space PCE requirements and interface with

NSSI.

1.1. Introduction. ........................................................................................................... 3

1.2. Scope. ..................................................................................................................... 3

1.3. ASOpS ................................................................................................................... 3

1.4. NSSI. ...................................................................................................................... 4

1.5. Space & Cyberspace Professional Management Office (SCPMO), HQ AFSPC/A1MH. 4

2.1. Course Functional Manager. .................................................................................. 4

3.1. Space Education and Training Board. ................................................................... 4

3. 2. Meeting frequency. ................................................................................................ 5

4.1. Roles and Responsibilities. .................................................................................... 5

4.2. Director of Air, Space and Cyberspace Operations (A3): ..................................... 5

4.3. Manpower, Organization & Resources Division (A1M): ...................................... 5

4.4. Space & Cyberspace Professional Management Office (A1MH): ........................ 5

4.5. Career Development (A1KB): ............................................................................... 6

4.6. Operations Training, Test, Exercises and Stan/Eval Division (A3T): ................... 6

4.7. ASOpS: .................................................................................................................. 6

4.8. NSSI: ...................................................................................................................... 7

4.9. Course Functional Manager (CFM): ...................................................................... 8

4.10. HQ AFSPC Command Leads: ............................................................................... 9

4.11. Space Education and Training Board (SETB): ...................................................... 9

5.1. Course Management. ............................................................................................. 9

5.2. Student scheduling. ................................................................................................ 10

Table 5.1. Deployment / Fundamentals / Advanced Courses. ................................................ 10

Table 5.2. NSSI Space PCE courses. ...................................................................................... 12

5.3. Student Funding. .................................................................................................... 12

AFSPCI36-221 7 NOVEMBER 2011 3

Table 5.3. Student TDY Funding Guidelines. ........................................................................ 12

5.4. Student management, ASOpS. ............................................................................... 13

5.5. Student management, NSSI. .................................................................................. 13

5.6. Metrics. .................................................................................................................. 13

5.7. OTA Functions. ..................................................................................................... 14

6.1. Developing/modifying ASOpS Curricula. ............................................................. 14

6.2. Curriculum development/modification process. .................................................... 14

Figure 6.1. ASOpS Curriculum Development/Modification Process. ..................................... 15

6.3. Curriculum Review. ............................................................................................... 16

7.1. Developing/modifying NSSI Curricula. ................................................................ 17

7.2. AFSPC Process for Space PCE Requirements. ..................................................... 17

Figure 7.1. AFSPC Process for Space PCE Requirements. ..................................................... 19

7.3. Curriculum Review. ............................................................................................... 20

8. Modifications to this HQ AFSPCI. ........................................................................ 20

Attachment 1—GLOSSARY OF REFERENCES AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION 21

Attachment 2—COURSE REQUIREMENTS DOCUMENT (CRD) 24

1.1. Introduction. Effective execution of a comprehensive space education and training

program is critical to develop and maintain highly skilled, experienced, and motivated space

professionals within the National Security Space (NSS) community. In 2009, the original NSSI

was realigned to appropriately place space education and training within applicable Air Force

organizations. As a result, the ASOpS and NSSI were formed. The ASOpS is part of the SIDC,

and is responsible for fundamentals, deployment and advanced training courses. Within the

SIDC, the ASOpS is assigned to the 595th Space Group. The NSSI is assigned to AETC, with

responsibility for space PCE via the Space 200 and 300 courses. The NSSI is under AU‟s Eaker

Center for Professional Development (ECPD). For simplicity, this AFSPCI refers to the schools

as ASOpS and NSSI with the understanding that space education and training matters will be

managed within respective chains of command as required.

1.2. Scope. This AFSPCI provides guidelines for effective interaction between HQ AFSPC and

external agencies regarding ASOpS and NSSI course management and development; outlines the

roles of the Course Functional Manager (CFM) and the Space Education and Training Board

(SETB); describes roles and responsibilities for key organizations; provides general guidance for

course and student management; outlines the process for requesting, developing and modifying

ASOpS courses; and describes how AFSPC integrates with AF and AETC processes to

significantly change or request new NSSI courses.

1.3. ASOpS The ASOpS presents operationally focused training courses to meet HQ AFSPC

requirements, as well as additional DoD space cadre requirements as resources permit. For

additional information, see the ASOpS website: https://www2.peterson.af.mil/ASOpS.htm

https://www2.peterson.af.mil/ASOpS.htm


1.3.1. Deployment Preparation. The ASOpS is responsible for the development and

execution of curricula to train space warfighters on the integration of space power into

military operations. The ASOpS also conducts the Weapons School Preparatory Course

to prepare AFSPC candidates for the USAF Weapons School program.

1.3.2. Fundamentals. The ASOpS develops courses that provide general space education

for the NSS community, personnel from DoD/National agencies and selected allies

(through Foreign Military Sales (FMS)).

1.3.3. Advanced Courses (AC). The ASOpS provides ACs to develop subject matter

experts with technical and tactical depth in space mission areas. ACs provide in-depth

understanding of the design, vulnerability, operation, employment and tactics of specific

weapon systems. AC graduates return to their organizations and employ their knowledge

to strengthen unit training programs, develop tactics, techniques and procedures, and

influence system development and acquisition.

1.3.4. Comparison to Combat Mission Ready (CMR) training. ASOpS courses enhance

an individual‟s knowledge and understanding of specific subjects, but are not CMR

courses. CMR courses are taught by AETC or AFSPC units, with HQ AFSPC/A3T

oversight.

1.4. NSSI. The NSSI develops and executes Space 200 and 300 in support of the Air Force

Space Professional Development Program (SPDP). Courses also support space cadre

development for other services‟ and selected allies (through FMS). For additional information,

see the NSSI website: https://www2.peterson.af.mil/nssi/CESET/nssi/index.htm

1.5. Space & Cyberspace Professional Management Office (SCPMO), HQ

AFSPC/A1MH. The SCPMO is the Air Force lead for the SPDP and therefore is closely

associated with the NSSI, which executes key elements of SPDP‟s education requirements. The

SCPMO supports the AFSPC/CC‟s role as the Space Professional Functional Authority (SPFA)

and establishes AF SPDP education policy. The SCPMO also serves as the AFSPC interface on

Department of Defense (DoD) space cadre issues, synchronizing AF space cadre development

efforts, coordinating requirements for selected NSSI and ASOpS courses, and addressing space

education and advanced training needs across the NSS community.

2.1. Course Functional Manager. Each course has a CFM, the advocate with a principal

interest in course development and execution to meet mission requirements. The CFM

determines requirements for new courses; submits changes to existing courses; works closely

with the ASOpS or NSSI to effectively develop and manage their courses; and advises the SETB

on course requirements, as required.

3.1. Space Education and Training Board. The SETB is a collaborative forum that facilitates

interschool cooperation and addresses issues associated with ASOpS- and NSSI-provided space

education and training. The SETB provides a forum to consolidate tasking, assess resource

requirements, establish priorities and review metrics (para 5.6). It is the preliminary review

board for ASOpS courses during the course development process (para 6) and integrates AFSPC

requirements into AU‟s curriculum process (para 7) for NSSI courses.

3.1.1. Membership:

3.1.1.1. Principal members:

https://www2.peterson.af.mil/nssi/CESET/nssi/index.htm


Chief, Manpower, Organization & Resources Division (HQ AFSPC/A1M, Chair).

Chief, Operations Training, Test, Exercises and Stan/Eval Division (HQ AFSPC/A3T).

Commandant, NSSI (NSSI/CC).

Commander, ASOpS (ASOpS/CC).

3.1.2. Associated members:

SCPMO: facilitates the SETB.

CFMs: as required to advise SETB.

Invited members: as required.

3. 2. Meeting frequency.

3.2.1. The SETB will meet semiannually to review course requirements and discuss

ASOpS and NSSI issues.

3.2.2. Out-of-cycle. An out-of-cycle SETB may convene to address time critical issues

or when principal SETB members determine convening the board is required.

3.2.3. Paper or electronic boards. The SETB may use normal staffing processes for

coordination of routine issues. In addition, the SETB members may convene a meeting

via email or telecon to resolve issues.

4.1. Roles and Responsibilities.

4.1.1. Vice Commander, AFSPC (CV):

4.1.1.1. Approves AF Form 19, Request to Establish a New Professional Continuing

Education Course, to develop new or significantly change space PCE courses.

4.1.1.2. For existing space PCE courses, validates Curriculum Plans to meet AU‟s

biennial Education Program Review Board (EPRB).

4.2. Director of Air, Space and Cyberspace Operations (A3):

4.2.1. Approves course requirements specified in the Course Requirements Document

(CRD) /Course Training Standard (CTS) to develop new or significantly change ASOpS

courses.

4.3. Manpower, Organization & Resources Division (A1M):

4.3.1. Principal member of the SETB (Chair).

4.3.2. Integrates manpower programs/requirements; coordinates HQ AFSPC activities

supporting SPDP and the SPFA.

4.4. Space & Cyberspace Professional Management Office (A1MH):

4.4.1. Facilitates the SETB; convenes Action Officer-level meetings prior to SETB to

coordinate issues, as required.

4.4.2. Manages the AF SPDP; develops/executes SPDP policy for the SPFA.

4.4.3. Interfaces with the other services‟ space cadre offices to synchronize space

professional development efforts, coordinate requirements for NSSI and ASOpS courses

and address space education and training needs across the NSS community.


4.4.4. Conducts space education conferences and working groups, as required, to identify

and integrate space education requirements.

4.4.5. In coordination with the HQ AFSPC Program Element Monitors (PEM) for the

SIDC (PE35174F), advocates for ASOpS resources (funding, manpower) within the

AFSPC Corporate Process, as required.

4.4.6. Provides input to AU‟s budgeting process for NSSI, as required.

4.4.7. Determines student throughput requirements for space PCE; identifies personnel

eligible to attend and manages class rosters in coordination with NSSI.

4.4.8. In coordination with NSSI, drafts AF Form 19 to develop new NSSI courses;

supports NSSI Curriculum Plan and course development efforts, as required.

4.4.9. Reviews Curriculum Plans to support validation of existing NSSI courses through

the AU EPRB.

4.4.10. Maintain currency of AFSPC-AU agreements regarding the intercommand

relationships, guidelines, and resourcing for execution of NSSI and ASOpS courses.

4.4.11. Maintains list of CFMs for all ASOpS courses; recertifies list annually.

4.5. Career Development (A1KB):

4.5.1. Executes functions within AETC‟s Oracle Training Administration (OTA)

database for ASOpS and NSSI courses, as required.

4.5.2. Serves as the Point of Contact (POC) for AFSPC courses, including ASOpS

courses, listed on the AETC Education and Training Course Announcement (ETCA)

website.

4.6. Operations Training, Test, Exercises and Stan/Eval Division (A3T):

4.6.1. Principal member of the SETB.

4.6.2. Ensures ASOpS-conducted training is provided to personnel selected for possible

deployment; ensures ASOpS-conducted prerequisite training is provided to candidates

selected for the USAF Weapons School.

4.6.3. Manages the Combat Air Forces Exercise and Readiness Training Program

Element (PE), PE27603F.

4.7. ASOpS:

4.7.1. Principal member of the SETB (Commander).

4.7.2. Designs, develops, executes and maintains courses to meet requirements as

directed by HQ AFSPC.

4.7.3. Ensures courses are available to meet user requirements as determined by the

course scheduling process, para 5.1., Course Scheduling.

4.7.4. In conjunction with CFMs, coordinates with other organizations (AETC, NSSI,

Space and Missile Defense Command, units, etc.) to minimize redundancies, eliminate

gaps, and ensure space training (non-CMR) needs are met across the NSS community.

4.7.5. Consults with external agencies on ASOpS course accreditation/articulation.


4.7.6. Drafts financial and manpower inputs to support SIDC inputs to the AFSPC

Corporate Process.

4.7.7. Coordinates with students on Temporary Duty (TDY) order requirements and

provides funding authorization for student TDYs funded through the SIDC PE35174F.

4.7.8. Certifies instructors, conducts follow-on training and periodically assesses

instructional technique and presentation IAW SIDC guidelines.

4.7.9. Performs registrar functions (e.g., student notifications, reporting instructions) for

courses IAW criteria/priorities established by CFMs, SETB and HQ AFSPC/A3.

4.7.10. Notifies the CFM when projected attendance is 50% or less of the target class

size. Coordinates with CFMs to maximize class slot utilization, as required.

4.7.11. Establishes process to disenroll students from courses based on substandard

performance.

4.7.12. Reports course metrics per para 5.6., Metrics.

4.7.13. Assesses CRD or change requests per para 6., Developing/modifying ASOpS

Curricula.

4.7.13.1. Determines applicability of Major Change (para 6.1.2.) criteria to proposed

course changes.

4.7.13.2. Assists CFMs/organizations in developing a CTS and refining training

requirements to satisfy course objectives.

4.7.13.3. Based on approved course requirements, develops a Course Resource

Estimate (CRE) to identify resources required (funding, manpower, equipment,

facility, etc.) for curriculum development and course execution.

4.7.13.4. Upon AFSPC/A3 approval of course requirements and availability of

resources, develops/modifies course.

4.7.14. Establishes a process for curriculum reviews. In collaboration with the CFM,

periodically assesses course content to ensure requirements are being met.

4.7.15. IAW AFSPC-AU agreements regarding the intercommand relationships,

guidelines, and resourcing for execution of NSSI and ASOpS courses, executes host

responsibilities to ensure effective use of the shared ASOpS-NSSI Space Education and

Training Center (SETC).

4.8. NSSI:

4.8.1. Principal member of the SETB (Commandant).

4.8.2. Designs, develops, executes and maintains space PCE courses to meet SPDP

education requirements.

4.8.3. Ensures courses are available to meet requirements as determined by the course

scheduling process, para 5.1., Course Scheduling.

4.8.4. In conjunction with the SCPMO, coordinates with other organizations (ASOpS,

Space and Missile Systems Center, units, etc.) to minimize redundancies, eliminate gaps,

and ensure space professional education needs are met across the NSS community.


4.8.5. Performs registrar functions (e.g., student notifications, reporting instructions);

coordinates with the CFM to maximize class slot utilization.

4.8.6. Generates TDY orders or provides a Line of Accounting Letter for students from

non-AFSPC organizations attending NSSI courses and funded through the Space

Education PE84760F.

4.8.7. Informs SCPMO of disenrollment proceedings, para 5.5., Student management,

NSSI.

4.8.8. Reports course metrics per para 5.6., Metrics.

4.8.9. Provides NSSI initial instructor training IAW AU guidelines.

4.8.10. Assists AFSPC in developing the AF Form 19 per para 7, Developing/modifying

NSSI Curricula.

4.8.10.1. Determines applicability of AU Major Change (para 7.1) criteria to

proposed course changes.

4.8.10.2. Coordinates with AFSPC to develop Curriculum Plans IAW AU-ECPD

guidance.

4.8.11. Collaborates with the CFM to periodically assess course content based on

established course objectives using AU curriculum review process.

4.8.12. IAW AFSPC-AU agreements regarding the intercommand relationships,

guidelines, and resourcing for execution of NSSI and ASOpS courses, execute tenant

responsibilities to ensure effective use of the shared ASOpS-NSSI SETC.

4.9. Course Functional Manager (CFM):

4.9.1. Establishes course requirements via a CRD (para 6, Developing/modifying

ASOpS Curricula) and CTS (ASOpS courses), or AF Form 19 and Curriculum Plan

(NSSI courses).

4.9.2. Provides funding to develop and execute required courses; if unable to provide

funding, supports ASOpS funding advocacy within the AFSPC Corporate Process

directly and through the appropriate Command Lead.

4.9.3. With assistance from the ASOpS or NSSI, develops/modifies course objectives;

reviews course material to support course development, as required.

4.9.4. Establishes student eligibility criteria in coordination with ASOpS or NSSI.

4.9.5. Estimates student throughput requirements or number of course offerings for each

FY and submits requirements to A1MH for consolidation and presentation to the SETB.

4.9.6. As required, participates in course management (e.g., funding, course and student

scheduling).

4.9.7. In coordination with course directors, determines if an offering will proceed when

projected attendance is 50% or less of the target class size as specified on the CRD.

4.9.8. Reviews Major Changes in coordination with the ASOpS or NSSI, as required.


4.9.9. Participates in curriculum reviews for their courses and periodically assesses the

course‟s ability to meet established requirements.

4.9.10. Coordinates with HQ AFSPC/A8I on foreign disclosure/releasability issues for

ASOpS courses, as required.

4.10. HQ AFSPC Command Leads:

4.10.1. Coordinate on ASOpS course documentation relevant to their mission area prior

to SETB coordination (e.g., HQ AFSPC/A3M, Command Lead for MILSATCOM,

coordinates on SATCOM Advanced Course documentation).

4.10.2. Support ASOpS funding advocacy within the AFSPC Corporate Process, as

required.

4.11. Space Education and Training Board (SETB):

4.11.1. Reviews projected ASOpS and NSSI requirements for upcoming and subsequent

FYs and addresses long-term planning considerations.

4.11.1.1. Prioritizes ASOpS courses based on decisions made through the AFSPC

Corporate Process; obtains HQ AFSPC/A3 guidance on course prioritization, when

required.

4.11.1.2. Consolidates tasking for ASOpS courses based on guidance from the SPFA

or

HQ AFSPC/A3.

4.11.2. Reviews metrics (para 5.6, Metrics) for ASOpS and NSSI courses.

4.11.3. Coordinates on CRD and CTS and provides recommendation to HQ AFSPC/A3

on approval of course requirements (para 6). On approval of course requirements,

reviews ASOpS CRE to assess resource implications for developing/executing the

course.

4.11.4. Reviews AF Form 19s generated in NSSI course development process and

provides a recommendation to AFSPC/CV for signature (para 7); reviews NSSI

Curriculum Plans and provides a recommendation to AFSPC/CV on validation for AU‟s

EPRB.

4.11.5. Reviews results and recommendations generated through curriculum reviews.

5.1. Course Management. Course management involves course scheduling, student

scheduling, funding and management and metrics collection. In addition, by using AETC‟s

OTA, students receive course notifications through their Unit Training Managers and receive

credit for course completion in their official training records.

5.1. 1. Course scheduling. Course scheduling is a dynamic process tied to space education

and training requirements and resource availability.

5.1.1.1. The SCPMO solicits CFM input for annual throughput or number of course

offerings for ASOpS and NSSI courses. The actual number of courses offered in a

FY may differ from the CFM‟s input due to resource availability and prioritization.

5.1.1.1.1. Mobile courses. Organizations will request ASOpS mobile courses


through the ASOpS. The request will include the timeframe, location and desired

content. Requesting organizations will fund ASOpS TDY costs. The ASOpS will

assess impact (schedule, instructor availability) and determine if they are able to

support the mobile course offering.

5.1.2. AF space education and training requirements have priority for ASOpS and NSSI

courses. The SCPMO forecasts space PCE throughput requirements for Active

Duty/civilian space professionals and polls CFMs, ARC, other services and selected

allies for ASOpS and NSSI requirements.

5.1.3. The SCPMO consolidates all ASOpS and NSSI course requirements for SETB

review. The SETB will review the requirements, identify any additional resource

constraints, and validate requirements for ASOpS and NSSI to develop course schedules.

5.1.4. The ASOpS and NSSI will schedule courses and forward schedules to the

SCPMO; the SCPMO updates the SETB.

5.1.5. When projected attendance for an ASOpS course is 50% or less of the target class

size, the ASOpS will notify the CFM at least 30 days prior to class start and provide a

recommendation on whether or not the course should proceed; the CFM will determine if

the course will proceed. The ASOpS will notify registered students of course

cancellation.

5.2. Student scheduling. Student scheduling varies by course. In general, the process involves

selecting students based on attendance criteria, populating class rosters and notifying students.

Student notification timelines vary based on the target audience, course length and prerequisites.

5.2.1. ASOpS Courses. Table 5.1., Deployment / Fundamentals / Advanced Courses,

describes the scheduling process by ASOpS course categories.

Table 5.1. Deployment / Fundamentals / Advanced Courses.

Deployment1

Target Audience - Space professionals selected for deployment, exercise support or AF

Weapons School

Selection

- A3TW. Populates class slots based on need for deployment training

(AFSPC tasking) or selection to Weapons School

- Other organizations, services. Nominate personnel to attend on a „space

available‟ basis

- ASOpS. Receives roster from A3TW; fills remaining slots with other

target students from NSS community depending on class slot availability

Notification

- A3TW. Informs students of course and any additional prerequisites

- ASOpS. Notifies students of class selection and provides initial

reporting instructions

Fundamentals2

Target Audience

- Members of NSS community

- Personnel from DoD/National agencies

- Selected allies (through FMS)


Selection

- Students. Register for course on-line through the ASOpS website

- ASOpS. Populates classes based on class slot availability and priority

based on job/assignment

- SCPMO. Verifies personnel requiring an ASOpS course for SPDP

certification

Notification - ASOpS. Notifies students of class selection and provides initial

reporting instructions

Advanced Courses

Target Audience3

- Space professionals or members from the NSS community working in

the specific area of study with appropriate clearances

- Eligibility criteria established by the CFM

Selection

- ASOpS. Sends course announcements4 to space organizations

- Space organizations. Nominate students IAW criteria specified in course

announcement

- ASOpS. Reviews nominations, selects students and submits the list of

students to the CFM

- Organizations. Generate orders based on ASOpS instructions; ensure

students attend course

Notification - ASOpS. Notifies organizations of selected students

Note:

1. 14 AF selects and notifies personnel for Director, Space Forces training

2. For mobile courses, the local (recipients) training manager or course coordinator populates

the course and notifies students.

3. ASOpS may grant waivers on a case-by-case basis per CFM guidance.

4. Course announcement will include: eligibility criteria, nomination requirements and

information on the selection process

5.2.2. NSSI, Space PCE courses. Effective student scheduling ensures the required

number of space professionals attend space PCE. Table 5.2., Space PCE courses,

describes the scheduling process.

5.2.2.1. Space PCE courses are essential elements of AF SPDP. To earn SPDP

Certification Levels, AF space professionals must attend within established eligibility

windows. Attendance is not based on competitive selection, but on SPDP eligibility

criteria and class slot availability. ARC space professional POCs nominate Reserve

and Guard personnel based on eligibility and slot allocations.

5.2.2.2. The SCPMO is responsible for class slot quotas for space PCE, which

includes determining SPDP requirements; coordinating with the ARC and other

services for their requirements; and balancing class slots based on requirements,

available capacity and guidance from the SPFA. Quotas are based on Service,

organization, personnel classification/grade (officer, enlisted, civilian, Guard,

Reserve), Air Force Specialty Codes (AFSC) and year group.

5.2.2.3. AF space professionals include Total Force personnel directly involved in

fielding, launching and employing space power and subject to SPDP certification

requirements. Core disciplines include operations (13S / 1C6), scientists (61X),


engineers (62E), acquisition managers (63A), intelligence (14N / 1N0/2/5), weather

(15W / 1W) and cyberspace operations and support (17D / 3D) as well as specified

civilian personnel. Expansion to include additional disciplines is at the discretion of

the SPFA.

5.2.2.4. Space cadre offices of the other services nominate personnel to attend

courses based on their criteria and slot allocations.

Table 5.2. NSSI Space PCE courses.

Target Audience

- Space professionals meeting SPDP eligibility criteria

- Members of other services‟ space cadres

- (, through FMS

Selection

- SCPMO. Determines quotas/allocations; sends the eligible space

professional candidates list to organizations. Populates initial class

rosters and coordinates with NSSI on changes. Coordinates with other

services and ARC on their quotas

Notification/Changes

- NSSI. Provides course instructions with lead time for prerequisites

(students register through the NSSI registrar to receive information and

prerequisites)

- Organizations. Process orders and ensure students attend. Individual

requests to change class dates must have wing commander (or

equivalent) authorization

5.3. Student Funding. In-residence NSSI and ASOpS courses require TDY to Colorado

Springs, CO. Table 5.3., Student TDY Funding Guidelines, provides general rules for funding

student travel, lodging and per diem. The student notification will include instructions on fund

cite authorization and TDY orders.

Table 5.3. Student TDY Funding Guidelines.

Courses Student Category Funding Source

Space PCE AF space professionals AU (PE84760F)1

Other Originating organization

Deployment

AF personnel selected for deployment

or Weapons School preparation

A3TW (PE27603F)2


Fundamentals AF space professionals3 SIDC (PE35174F)4


Advanced AF space professionals SIDC (PE35174F)4



NOTE:

1. Only AF members selected by HQ AFSPC/A3TW are funded by PE27603F.

2. For TDYs funded through PE84760F, the NSSI will generate orders or a Travel Authorization

and Use of Funds memorandum for students IAW their local guidelines.

3. Only applies to space professionals attending an ASOpS course for SPDP certification.

4. For TDYs funded through PE35174F, AFSPC organizations will generate orders based on

instructions that ASOpS includes in the student notification.

5.4. Student management, ASOpS. Student management ensures consistent and equitable

administration of students enrolled in ASOpS courses. The ASOpS Commander is responsible

for development and execution of student management policies. The following general

guidelines ensure the ASOpS and CFMs are consistent in dealing with student absences and

performance.

5.4.1. Students are expected to be present for all phases of instruction during a course.

Unauthorized absences may result in student elimination. In extraordinary

circumstances, authorized absences may be granted IAW ASOpS student management

policies.

5.4.2. Performance. The ASOpS will establish measurement criteria for courses

consistent with the CTS and criteria requiring an elimination board. The ASOpS will

disseminate criteria to ensure students are aware of expected performance.

5.4.2.1. The ASOpS will maintain ongoing interaction with CFMs. At a minimum,

the ASOpS will inform the CFM when a student will meet an elimination board. The

ASOpS will pass results from the elimination board to the CFM and the student‟s unit

commander.

5.4.2.2. Students disenrolled from a course will not receive credit for course

completion and must wait six months and obtain a recommendation from their wing

commander (or equivalent) to re-enroll. Placement in a class will be contingent on

slot availability. If elimination changes the student‟s eligibility, the CFM will

determine if the student may re-enroll based on the wing commander‟s

recommendation.

5.4.3. Fitness standards. Due to the short duration of ASOpS courses, students are

personally responsible for maintaining AF fitness standards; assessing compliance with

AF fitness standards is the responsibility of the student‟s unit.

5.5. Student management, NSSI. The NSSI Commandant is responsible for student

management policies IAW AUI 36-2315, Student Disenrollment Procedures, 19 Nov 2008. The

NSSI will inform the SCPMO of disenrollment proceedings and student elimination from space

PCE.

5.6. Metrics. To maintain consistency and accurately document space education and training

throughput in both schools, ASOpS and NSSI will establish and monitor metrics for each course.

Example metrics: courses conducted, throughput, percent graduated; demographics of students

(e.g., rank, service, country). ASOpS and NSSI will submit metrics to SCPMO quarterly to meet

higher headquarter reporting requirements.


5.7. OTA Functions. HQ AFSPC/A1KB supports ASOpS execution of OTA functions and

updates the AETC‟s ETCA website with ASOpS course information.

6.1. Developing/modifying ASOpS Curricula. The curriculum development/modification

process involves establishing and validating requirements specified in the CRD/CTS, estimating

and advocating for resources, and developing/modifying/executing the course. A requestor can

be the CFM, ASOpS or HQ AFSPC staff, the SETB, or an external organization. The process

begins with a requestor submitting a CRD to the ASOpS or SCPMO (as SETB facilitator).

6.1.1. CRD and Major Changes. A CRD identifies the overarching requirements for a

course. ASOpS uses the criteria for a Major Change to scope the effort to execute the

change. A new course is processed as a Major Change.

6.1.1.1. CRD: A CRD establishes the “what, why, who and when” and must provide

sufficient detail to allow the ASOpS and the SETB to determine if the course is

within the scope of the ASOpS‟s mission and establish a priority for further

requirements definition (Reference Attachment 2, CRD Template for additional

details).

6.1.2. Major Change: changes to the CTS (revisions to tasks or learning levels);

potential need for additional resources (manpower, facilities, funding); course deletions;

and all requests to develop new courses. Other changes are assigned to the ASOpS for

disposition.

6.2. Curriculum development/modification process. Figure 6.1., ASOpS Curriculum

Development/Modification Process, depicts the steps for developing/modifying ASOpS

curricula. Paragraphs below discuss associated steps and decision points.

6.2.1. CRD (Requestor). Initiates the DEVELOP phase with a CRD for a new course.

The CRD will enter the Major Change phase to validate and prioritize the requirement.

6.2.2. Change (Requestor). Initiates the MODIFY phase with a suggested change for an

existing course. The MODIFY process begins with the ASOpS checking the validity of

the change and assessing the impact to the curriculum.

6.2.3. Change Valid (ASOpS). The ASOpS reviews the change and determines if the

change is valid and within the scope of the course. To make this assessment, the ASOpS

may consult with the CFM. If the change is valid, the ASOpS will determine if the

change meets criteria for a Major Change.


Figure 6.1. ASOpS Curriculum Development/Modification Process.


6.2.4. Major Change (ASOpS). The ASOpS determines if the change is a Major Change

based on criteria in para 6.1.2., Major Change and informs the CFM. The ASOpS will

provide a preliminary estimate of the expected impacts and resources required to initiate the

change. If the change is not Major, the ASOpS implements the change based on need,

opportunity and available resources.

6.2.5. Develop/modify CRD/CTS (CFM, ASOpS). The CFM and ASOpS will

develop/modify a CRD and CTS to refine course requirements (e.g., determine desired

learning outcomes, develop line items, and specify learning levels).

6.2.6. CRD/CTS coordination (Command Lead). The HQ AFSPC Command Lead (or

other functional organization) reviews the course requirements in the CRD/CTS for

courses aligned with their mission area.

6.2.7. CRD/CTS coordination (SETB). The SETB reviews the course requirements in

the CRD/CTS as a preliminary review board prior to obtaining HQ AFSPC/A3 approval.

For a change to an existing course, the SETB determines if it requires HQ AFSPC/A3

approval.

6.2.8. Course Approved (SETB). HQ AFSPC/A3 approves the course requirements

specified in the CRD/CTS. Approval requires the ASOpS to develop the Course

Resource Estimate and pursue funding with validated requirements.

6.2.9. Develop CRE (ASOpS). ASOpS develops a CRE to determine facility,

equipment, funding and manpower required to conduct the course and submits the CRE

to the SETB.

6.2.10. Resources required (SETB). The SETB reviews the CRE for completeness,

determines impact on facilities and equipment and identifies areas of concern prior to

seeking additional resources.

6.2.11. Advocate/provide resources (CFM, SIDC, PEM). If resources are available to

develop/execute the course, the applicable organization will transfer funds to the SIDC

PE (PE35174F). In most cases, new courses will require advocacy through the AFSPC

Corporate Process. The PE35714F PEM will normally present the option and will need

support from the CFM, ASOpS and SIDC to accurately convey required resources and

mission impact. Command Leads may also provide critical advocacy. Once resources

are available, the ASOpS will proceed with developing or modifying curricula.

6.2.12. Develop or modify curricula (ASOpS). Based on the course requirements, the

ASOpS develops or modifies the curricula and associated courseware. The CFM will

support the development effort by reviewing course material (syllabus, lessons, etc.), as

requested by ASOpS.

6.3. Curriculum Review. ASOpS will establish periodic curriculum reviews to assess the

adequacy of courses to meet established requirements and educational needs. In contrast to

routine course evaluations, curriculum reviews will have a strategic focus and validate existing

and future course requirements (e.g., new systems, revised strategy/doctrine). Specific review

procedures may vary by course.

6.3.1. CFMs will coordinate with ASOpS to determine the approach for specific course

reviews. For example, ASOpS and CFMs may conduct combined end-of-course


feedback sessions, field interviews or course surveys; CFMs may also conduct

independent assessments. At a minimum, ASOpS and CFMs will review course

documentation (e.g., CRD, CTS) annually.

6.3.2. Course change recommendations resulting from the review will follow the

procedures in paragraph 6.1 above. The ASOpS, in coordination with the CFM, will

report the results of the curriculum review to the SETB.

7.1. Developing/modifying NSSI Curricula. The SPFA provides overarching guidance and

direction for space PCE. Development and modification of NSSI courses follows processes

prescribed in AFI 36-2302, Professional Development (Academic Degrees and Professional

Continuing Education). The following paragraphs describe the AFSPC approach to integrate

with these processes.

7.1.1. AF Form 19, Request to Establish a New Professional Continuing Education

Course, and AU Major Changes. The AF Form 19 establishes the requirement,

coordination and approval for new PCE courses. Like the CRD, the AF Form 19

identifies the overarching need, including course description, objectives, justification,

target audience and annual production. If a change to an existing course meets the AU

Major Change criteria (25 percent or more hours curriculum modification or adjustment),

the course is deleted and a new AF Form 19 is developed.

7.2. AFSPC Process for Space PCE Requirements. Figure 7.1., AFSPC Process for Space

PCE Requirements, depicts the AFSPC process for identifying requirements to AU for

developing/modifying space PCE curricula. The paragraphs below discuss associated steps and

decision points.

7.2.1. AF Form 19 (Requestor). Initiates the DEVELOP process with an AF Form 19 for

a new course. The AF Form 19 enters the Major Change process to validate the

requirement.

7.2.2. Change (Requestor). Initiates the MODIFY process with a suggested change for

an existing PCE course. The MODIFY process begins with the NSSI checking the

validity of the change and assessing the impact to the curriculum.

7.2.3. Change Valid (NSSI). The NSSI reviews the change and determines if the change

is valid and within the scope of the course. To make this assessment, the NSSI may

consult the CFM. If the change is valid, the NSSI will determine if it is a Major Change.

7.2.4. Major Change (NSSI). For a Major Change (para 7.1.), the NSSI will inform the

CFM and provides a preliminary estimate of the expected impacts and resources required

for the change. If the change is not Major, the NSSI implements the change based on

need, opportunity and available resources.

7.2.5. Develop/modify AF Form 19 (CFM, NSSI). The CFM and NSSI will

develop/modify the AF Form 19 to refine course requirements (e.g., description,

objectives, justification, etc.).

7.2.6. AF Form 19 coordination (SETB). The SETB completes a preliminary review of

the AF Form 19 prior to obtaining AFSPC/CV signature.


7.2.7. AF Form 19 signed (CV). Course changes may require SPFA coordination prior

to the AF-level AF Form 19 process. AFSPC/CV signs block 19 to initiate the AF Form

19 process.

7.2.8. AF Form 19 Process. The AF Form 19 is coordinated through multiple

organizations (e.g., ECPD, AU, AETC, Air Staff) to research the requirement, estimate

costs and approve the course. HQ AFSPC, in coordination with AU, may be required to

advocate or provide resources for the course.


Figure 7.1. AFSPC Process for Space PCE Requirements.


7.2.9. Advocate/provide resources (CFM). In coordination with AU, the CFM will

advocate for resources, as required. Course advocacy may require AFSPC support.

7.2.10. Develop/modify Curriculum Plan (NSSI, CFM). Once approved and funded, the

NSSI develops or modifies a Curriculum Plan to identify course objectives. The NSSI

collaborates with the CFM to ensure the course meets requirements.

7.2.11. Develop or modify curricula (NSSI). Based on the course requirements, the

NSSI develops or modifies the curricula and associated courseware/documentation. The

CFM will support the development effort by reviewing course material (syllabus, lessons,

etc.), as requested by NSSI.

7.3. Curriculum Review. AUI 36-2306, Air University Educational Program Review,

describes AU‟s formal curriculum review process. AU-ECPD conducts a biennial review to

verify that NSSI courses contain content required by the CFM as documented in the Curriculum

Plan.

7.3.1. Review Curriculum Plan (NSSI, CFM). The NSSI and CFM review the

Curriculum Plan to assess course construct and objectives and provide results to the

SETB.

7.3.2. Curriculum Plan coordination (SETB). The SETB coordinates on the Curriculum

Plan as a preliminary review board and provides a recommendation to AFSPC/CV for

validation.

7.3.3. Curriculum Plan validated (CV). AFSPC/CV validates the Curriculum Plan via a

memo to ECPD/CC.

7.3.4. The validated Curriculum Plan meets the AU EPRB to approve the content,

conduct and administration of NSSI courses. In addition to the formal biennial review,

ECPD can request out-of-cycle reviews to consider any major change involving course

revisions, additions, or deletions occurring since the last formal review.

8. Modifications to this HQ AFSPCI. This instruction will be reviewed annually for currency.

Refer recommended changes and questions about this publication to the HQ AFSPC/A1MH, 150

Vandenberg St, Ste 1105, Peterson AFB, CO 80914-4230, email:

[email protected] using the AF IMT 847, Recommendation for Change of

Publication; route AF Form 847s from the field through the appropriate functional office‟s chain

of command.

CHRISTOPHER T. EMMERT, Colonel, USAF

Director of Manpower, Personnel and Services

mailto:[email protected]


Attachment 1

GLOSSARY OF REFERENCES AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION

References

AFPD 36-22, Air Force Military Training, 22 March 2004

AFPD 36-23, Military Education, 27 September 1993

AFPD 36-37, Space Professional Development, 23 March 2006

AFI 36-2201, Volume 1, Training Development, Delivery, and Evaluation, 1 October 2002

AFI 36-2302, Professional Development (Academic Degrees and Professional Continuing

Education), 11 July 2001

AFI 36-3701, Space Professional Development Program, 18 May 2010

AUI 36-2306, Air University Educational Program Review, 24 September 2007

AUI 36-2315, Student Disenrollment Procedures, 19 November 2008

AFSPCI 36-2202, Volume 1, 14 AF Mission Ready Training, Evaluation And Standardization

Programs, 1 January 2010

Prescribed Forms

No Forms prescribed by this publication

Adopted Forms

AF Form 19, Request to Establish a New Professional Continuing Education Course

AF Form 847, Recommendation for Change of Publication

Abbreviations and Acronyms

AC—Advanced Course

AETC—Air Education and Training Command

AFI—Air Force Instruction

AFPD—Air Force Policy Directive

AFRC—Air Force Reserve Command

AFSC—Air Force Specialty Code

AFSPC—Air Force Space Command

AFSPCI—Air Force Space Command Instruction

ANG—Air National Guard

ARC—Air Reserve Component

ASOpS—Advanced Space Operations School

AU—Air University


AUI—Air University Instruction

CFM—Course Functional Manager

CMR—Combat Mission Ready

CRD—Course Requirements Document

CRE—Course Resource Estimate

CTS—Course Training Standard

DoD—Department of Defense

ECPD—Eaker Center for Professional Development

EPRB—Educational Program Review Board

ETCA—Education and Training Course Announcement

FMS—Foreign Military Sales

IAW—In Accordance With

NSS—National Security Space

NSSI—National Security Space Institute

OPR—Office of Primary Responsibility

OTA—Oracle Training Administration

PCE—Professional Continuing Education

PE—Program Element

PEM—Program Element Monitor

POC—Point of Contact

SETB—Space Education and Training Board

SETC—Space Education and Training Center

SIDC—Space Innovation and Development Center

SPDP—Space Professional Development Program

SPFA—Space Professional Functional Authority

SCPMO—Space and Cyberspace Professional Management Office

TDY—Temporary Duty

Terms

Course Functional Manager (CFM)— The course advocate who has the principal interest in

the content and execution of an ASOpS and NSSI course.

Course Requirements Document (CRD)— Identifies requirements for an ASOpS course.

Course Training Standard (CTS)— Identifies training tasks and required learning levels.


Curriculum Plan— Identifies course construct/objectives to meet education requirements.

Major Change— Changes to a course that involve: changes to the CTS (revisions to tasks or

learning levels); potential need for additional resources (manpower, facilities, funding); course

deletions; all requests to develop new courses.

Space Education and Training Board (SETB)— A senior level decision-making forum

addressing issues associated with ASOpS and NSSI provided space education and training. Key

roles include consolidating tasking, determining requirements, coordinating on course documents

and reviewing metrics. Principal members: A1M(chair), A3T, NSSI/CC, ASOpS/CC.

Space Professional— Total Force personnel directly involved in fielding, launching and

employing space power; subject to SPDP certification requirements. Core disciplines include

operations, intelligence, weather, cyberspace operations and support, scientists, engineers, and

acquisition managers; core AFSCs 13S, 14N, 15W, 17D, 61S, 62E, 63A (officer); 1C6 and

selected 1N0/2/5, 1W and 3D (enlisted) as well as specified civilian personnel. Expansion to

include additional disciplines is at the discretion of the SPFA.

Space Professional Functional Authority (SPFA)— AFSPC/CC role as designated by SECAF:

articulates Space Professional requirements to Functional Authorities in the form of long- and

short-term manpower forecasts; personnel requirements; and education, training, and experience

criteria necessary to develop a sufficient Space Professional cadre; provides strategic-level

guidance to the functional communities that contribute to USAF space capabilities.


Attachment 2

COURSE REQUIREMENTS DOCUMENT (CRD)

Figure A2.1. Course Requirements Document (CRD)

Course Requirements Document (CRD)

[Course Title]

Advanced Space Operations School

Date: [Date submitted]

Course Functional Manager: (A3M example)

[Office] HQ AFSPC/A3M, MILSATCOM Division

[Phone, DSN/Comm] DSN: 662-0226; Comm: 719-554-0226

[Organization Email] [email protected]

Purpose: [General intent/scope and top level objectives; desired knowledge outcomes (i.e., what

is the end state for graduates)]

Justification: [Rationale for developing the course and impact if not conducted; alternate

sources/alternatives considered and why they do not satisfy requirements; supporting

documentation, if available]

Target Audience: [Who the course is intended for. Consider:

- Service or Agency (Army, AF, Navy, NASA, etc)

- Category/Rank (Officer, Enlisted, Civilian with associated ranks, grades)

- Air Force Specialty Code (or other Service/civilian equivalents)

- General background (space experience, mission area expertise, SPDP Certification Level)

- Organizations (what organizations would benefit from the course)]

Projected Annual Course Offerings: [Number of times the course should be offered per year and

any specific timing considerations.]

Projected Annual Student Throughput: [Number of students per year that will attend]

Security Classification: [Security classification and releasability to foreign nationals (foreign

national access to course material will require an OPSEC/releasability review)]

Timeframe for Implementation: [When the course is required]

Funding//Manpower Sources: [Sources for funding/manpower]

Additional Information: [Any other details associated with the course]

COORD / APPROVAL

Command Lead (Coord): A3M, 23 Aug 10


SETB (Coord): 7 Sep 10

A3 (Approve): 28 Sep 10

by order of the commander air force...

Documents